Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A target identification system, comprising: an optical receiver which receives outgoing light from a moving body, the outgoing light including an optical signal indicating first information for identifying the moving body; a controller which is connected to the optical receiver; and a wireless communicator which is connected to the controller, wherein: when the optical receiver receives the outgoing light, the controller obtains the first information, when the controller receives radio waves including the first information and second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator, the controller determines whether the first information included in the outgoing light matches the first information included in the radio waves, and in the case where the first information included in the outgoing light matches the first information included in the radio waves, the controller obtains the second information, the second information being information necessary for the moving body to receive a predetermined service, and the controller: in response to receiving the first information by the optical receiver, transmits radio waves including confirmation information for requesting transmission of the second information, to the moving body via the wireless communicator; transmits radio waves including request information for requesting the second information, to the moving body via the wireless communicator when the controller receives radio waves including authorization information indicating authorization for the transmission of the second information, from the moving body via the wireless communicator; and obtains the second information when the controller receives the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator.
This invention relates to a target identification system for securely verifying and obtaining information from a moving body, such as a vehicle, to enable access to a predetermined service. The system addresses the challenge of securely identifying and authenticating moving bodies in environments where wireless communication alone may be insufficient for reliable identification, such as in high-traffic or high-security areas. The system includes an optical receiver that captures outgoing light from the moving body, which contains an optical signal carrying first information used to identify the moving body. A controller processes this optical signal to extract the first information. Additionally, the system includes a wireless communicator that receives radio waves from the moving body, which also contain the first information along with second information necessary for the moving body to receive a service. The controller verifies the moving body by comparing the first information from the optical signal with the first information received via radio waves. If they match, the controller proceeds to obtain the second information. The system further includes a multi-step authentication process: after receiving the first information optically, the controller transmits radio waves requesting confirmation of the second information. Upon receiving authorization from the moving body, the controller sends a request for the second information and ultimately obtains it once verified. This dual-channel verification ensures secure and reliable identification before granting access to services.
2. The target identification system according to claim 1 , further comprising a display, wherein when the optical receiver receives the outgoing light, the controller causes the display to display an image indicating that the optical receiver has received the outgoing light.
A target identification system is designed to detect and confirm the presence of a target by analyzing reflected light. The system includes an optical receiver that captures outgoing light, which may be emitted from a target or reflected by it. A controller processes the received light to determine if it matches expected characteristics, such as wavelength or intensity, to verify the target's identity. The system may also include a display that visually indicates when the optical receiver has successfully received the outgoing light, providing immediate feedback to the user. This feedback helps operators quickly confirm target detection and reduces the risk of misidentification. The system is particularly useful in applications where accurate and rapid target verification is critical, such as military, surveillance, or industrial inspection. By combining optical sensing with real-time visual feedback, the system enhances reliability and user confidence in target identification.
3. The target identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the second information includes charging information necessary for charging a fee for the predetermined service received by the moving body.
A target identification system is designed to identify and track moving bodies, such as vehicles, within a designated area. The system addresses the challenge of accurately detecting and managing moving objects in real-time, particularly in environments where automated services are provided to these bodies. The system includes a detection unit that captures data about the moving bodies, such as their position, speed, and direction. This data is processed to generate first information, which identifies the moving bodies and their attributes. Additionally, the system generates second information, which includes details necessary for charging a fee for services received by the moving bodies. This second information may encompass transactional data, usage metrics, or other financial details required to bill the moving bodies for the services they utilize. The system ensures that the moving bodies are correctly identified and that the associated service fees are accurately calculated and applied. By integrating detection and financial processing, the system streamlines the management of automated services for moving bodies, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in both identification and billing.
4. The target identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the second information includes electronic toll collection (ETC) information.
The target identification system is designed for accurately identifying and tracking targets, such as vehicles, in real-time environments. A key challenge in such systems is the need for precise and reliable target identification, especially in dynamic scenarios where multiple targets may be present. The system addresses this by integrating multiple data sources to enhance identification accuracy. The system includes a first information processing unit that processes first information, such as sensor data, to detect and track targets. A second information processing unit processes second information, which may include electronic toll collection (ETC) information, to further refine target identification. ETC information, such as vehicle transponder data or toll transaction records, provides additional contextual data that helps distinguish between similar targets, reducing false identifications. By combining sensor-based tracking with ETC data, the system improves target identification accuracy, particularly in scenarios where visual or sensor data alone may be insufficient. This integration allows for more reliable target differentiation, even in congested or high-traffic environments. The system is particularly useful in applications like traffic monitoring, toll collection, and vehicle management, where precise target identification is critical. The use of ETC information enhances the system's ability to correlate and verify target identities, ensuring robust performance in real-world conditions.
5. A parking apparatus which is disposed in a parking lot and includes a target identification system, wherein: the target identification system comprises: an optical receiver which receives outgoing light from a moving body, the outgoing light including an optical signal indicating first information for identifying the moving body; a controller which is connected to the optical receiver; and a wireless communicator which is connected to the controller, wherein: when the optical receiver receives the outgoing light, the controller obtains the first information, and when the controller receives radio waves including the first information and second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator, the controller determines whether the first information included in the outgoing light matches the first information included in the radio waves, and in the case where the first information included in the outgoing light matches the first information included in the radio waves, the controller obtains the second information, the second information being information necessary for the moving body to receive a predetermined service, the optical receiver includes: a first optical receiver which is disposed at an entrance of the parking lot; and a second optical receiver which is disposed at an exit of the parking lot, and the controller: obtains the first information when the controller receives the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator, in the case where the first optical receiver receives the outgoing light; and transmits radio waves including use information about use of the parking lot to the moving body via the wireless communicator when the second optical receiver receives the outgoing light, the use information indicating the predetermined service received by the moving body.
This invention relates to a parking apparatus designed to manage and authenticate moving bodies, such as vehicles, within a parking lot. The system addresses the challenge of securely identifying and verifying vehicles entering and exiting a parking facility while ensuring they receive appropriate services. The apparatus includes a target identification system with an optical receiver that captures outgoing light from a moving body, which contains an optical signal carrying first information for identifying the vehicle. A controller processes this data and communicates via a wireless communicator. When the optical receiver detects the outgoing light, the controller extracts the first information. Additionally, the controller receives radio waves from the moving body containing both the first information and second information, which is necessary for the vehicle to access a predetermined service. The controller verifies that the first information in the optical signal matches the first information in the radio waves. If they match, the controller retrieves the second information. The optical receiver consists of two components: a first optical receiver at the parking lot entrance and a second at the exit. When the first receiver detects the outgoing light, the controller obtains the first information from the radio waves. When the second receiver detects the light, the controller transmits radio waves back to the vehicle, including use information about the parking service received, such as payment or access details. This system ensures secure and automated verification of vehicles for parking services.
6. The parking apparatus according to claim 5 , further comprising a gate at at least one of the entrance or the exit, wherein when the controller receives radio waves including the second information via the wireless communicator, the controller causes the gate to allow the moving body to pass.
A parking apparatus is designed to manage the entry and exit of moving bodies, such as vehicles, in a controlled manner. The apparatus includes a controller that communicates wirelessly with moving bodies to verify their access rights. The controller receives radio waves containing identification or authorization data from the moving body and determines whether to grant access. The apparatus further includes a gate at either the entrance, the exit, or both. When the controller receives valid radio waves containing the required authorization data, it activates the gate to allow the moving body to pass through. This system automates access control, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving efficiency in parking management. The apparatus ensures that only authorized moving bodies can enter or exit the parking area, enhancing security and streamlining operations. The wireless communication and automated gate control provide a seamless and secure parking experience.
7. The parking apparatus according to claim 5 , further comprising an entrance gate at the entrance and an exit gate at the exit, wherein the controller: in response to receiving the outgoing light by the first optical receiver, transmits radio waves including request information for requesting the second information, to the moving body via the wireless communicator; obtains the second information and causes the entrance gate to allow the moving body to pass, when the controller receives the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator, in the case where the first information included in the outgoing light matches the first information included in the radio waves; in response to receiving the outgoing light by the second optical receiver, transmits the request information for requesting the second information, to the moving body via the wireless communicator; and transmits the radio waves including the use information about the use of the parking lot to the moving body via the wireless communicator, and causes the exit gate to allow the moving body to pass, when the controller receives the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator, the use information indicating the predetermined service received by the moving body.
This invention relates to a parking apparatus designed to manage vehicle entry and exit using optical and wireless communication systems. The system addresses the need for secure and automated parking lot access control, ensuring only authorized vehicles can enter and exit while tracking usage data. The apparatus includes an entrance and exit gate, optical sensors, and a controller with wireless communication capabilities. At the entrance, an optical receiver detects outgoing light from an approaching vehicle. Upon detection, the controller sends a radio wave signal requesting identification information from the vehicle. The vehicle responds with stored data, including a unique identifier and usage details. If the identifier matches pre-registered data, the entrance gate opens, granting access. At the exit, another optical receiver detects outgoing light from a departing vehicle. The controller then requests updated usage information, such as parking duration or services received. The vehicle transmits this data, and if verified, the exit gate opens. The system ensures seamless, secure access while recording usage metrics for billing or tracking purposes. The wireless communication enables real-time verification without physical interaction, improving efficiency and security in parking management.
8. A vehicle comprising: a first light emitter which emits outgoing light including an optical signal indicating first information for identifying the vehicle; a vehicular controller which is connected to the first light emitter; a vehicular wireless communicator which is connected to the vehicular controller; a user interface which, when the vehicular controller receives radio waves including confirmation information via the vehicular wireless communicator, makes a presentation to cause an operator to input an instruction according to the confirmation information, the confirmation information being information for requesting transmission of second information, the second information being information necessary for the vehicle to receive a predetermined service; and an obtainer which obtains the instruction, wherein the vehicular controller transmits, via the vehicular wireless communicator, radio waves including authorization information, and radio waves including the second information and the first information that matches the first information included in the outgoing light, when the instruction is an instruction to authorize the transmission of the second information, in the case where the obtainer obtains the instruction, the authorization information indicating authorization for the transmission of the second information.
A vehicle identification and authorization system enhances security and service access by integrating optical and wireless communication. The system addresses the need for secure vehicle identification and controlled data transmission to enable services like toll payments or parking access. The vehicle includes a light emitter that broadcasts an optical signal containing first information, such as a unique identifier, to nearby devices. A vehicular controller manages communication and processing, connected to a wireless communicator for radio-based data exchange. When the controller receives radio waves containing confirmation information—a request for additional data—the system prompts the operator via a user interface to authorize or deny transmission of second information, such as payment details or access credentials. If the operator approves, the controller transmits radio waves with authorization information and the requested second information, along with the first information from the optical signal to verify authenticity. This ensures secure, user-approved data sharing for service access while maintaining vehicle identification integrity. The system combines optical and wireless communication to streamline service interactions while preventing unauthorized data exposure.
9. The vehicle according to claim 8 , further comprising a second light emitter, wherein the vehicular controller causes at least one of the first light emitter or the second light emitter to emit the outgoing light.
This invention relates to vehicular lighting systems designed to enhance visibility and communication between vehicles. The system addresses the problem of limited visibility in low-light or adverse conditions, where traditional headlights may not effectively convey important information to other drivers. The invention includes a vehicle equipped with at least one light emitter, such as an LED or laser, capable of emitting outgoing light in a controlled manner. The vehicle also has a controller that regulates the light emission based on various factors, such as environmental conditions, vehicle speed, or proximity to other vehicles. The controller can adjust the intensity, direction, or pattern of the emitted light to optimize visibility and reduce glare. In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a second light emitter, allowing the controller to selectively activate either the first or second emitter, or both, to achieve the desired lighting effect. This dual-emitter configuration provides flexibility in adapting the lighting output to different scenarios, such as adjusting for oncoming traffic or illuminating specific areas around the vehicle. The system may also incorporate sensors to detect external conditions and dynamically adjust the lighting in real time, improving safety and communication between vehicles.
10. The vehicle according to claim 9 , wherein at least one of the first light emitter or the second light emitter is a headlamp, and the other of the first light emitter and the second light emitter is a daytime running lamp.
This invention relates to vehicle lighting systems designed to enhance visibility and safety. The system includes a vehicle with at least two light emitters, where one is a headlamp and the other is a daytime running lamp (DRL). The headlamp provides primary illumination for nighttime driving, while the DRL operates during daylight to improve vehicle visibility. The system may also include a control unit that adjusts the intensity or operation of these lights based on environmental conditions, such as ambient light levels or weather. The headlamp and DRL may be integrated into a single housing or positioned separately on the vehicle. The system ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for vehicle lighting while optimizing energy efficiency and driver visibility. The invention addresses the need for improved daytime visibility without compromising nighttime performance, reducing the risk of accidents by making vehicles more noticeable in various lighting conditions. The design may also incorporate adaptive lighting features, such as automatic dimming or directional adjustments, to further enhance safety.
11. The target identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the controller: does not transmit the radio waves including the request information to the moving body via the wireless communicator when a predetermined time has passed without the controller receiving the radio waves including the authorization information; and does not obtain the second information when the controller receives the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator.
A target identification system for wireless communication between a controller and a moving body, such as a vehicle, addresses the need for secure and efficient data exchange. The system prevents unauthorized access by verifying authorization before transmitting or receiving sensitive information. The controller sends radio waves containing request information to the moving body, prompting it to respond with radio waves that include both first information (e.g., identification data) and second information (e.g., location or operational status). To enhance security, the controller checks for authorization information within a predetermined time. If no authorization is received, the controller refrains from transmitting the request information, preventing unauthorized communication. Additionally, if the controller receives both the first and second information from the moving body, it intentionally ignores the second information, ensuring that only authorized or necessary data is processed. This selective data handling improves system security and reduces unnecessary data transmission. The system is designed to operate in environments where wireless communication must be both reliable and secure, such as in automotive or industrial applications.
12. The target identification system according to claim 2 , wherein the controller: when the optical receiver does not receive the outgoing light, causes the display to display an image indicating that the optical receiver has not received the outgoing light; when the optical receiver receives the outgoing light, causes the display to display the image indicating that the optical receiver has received the outgoing light; and when the controller has not received the radio waves including the first information and the second information from the moving body via the wireless communicator for a predetermined time, causes the display to switch from the image indicating that the optical receiver has received the outgoing light to the image indicating that the optical receiver has not received the outgoing light.
This invention relates to a target identification system for tracking and verifying the presence of a moving body, such as a vehicle, using optical and wireless communication methods. The system addresses the challenge of accurately determining whether a moving body is within a designated area or aligned with a target, particularly in scenarios where visual confirmation alone is insufficient. The system includes an optical receiver that detects outgoing light emitted by the moving body, a wireless communicator that receives radio waves containing identification information from the moving body, and a controller that processes this data. The controller monitors the optical receiver to determine whether the outgoing light is being received. If the optical receiver does not detect the outgoing light, the system displays an image indicating the absence of the light. Conversely, if the optical receiver detects the outgoing light, the system displays an image confirming its reception. Additionally, the controller checks for the presence of radio waves containing first and second information from the moving body. If the controller does not receive these radio waves for a predetermined time after detecting the outgoing light, the system automatically switches the display from the confirmation image to the absence image. This ensures that the system only maintains a positive identification if both optical and wireless signals are consistently received, preventing false positives due to temporary signal loss. The system enhances reliability in target tracking by combining optical and wireless verification methods.
13. The vehicle according to claim 10 , wherein the vehicular controller: causes the daytime running lamp to emit the outgoing light including the optical signal; when the headlamp is turned on, causes the headlamp to emit the outgoing light including the optical signal, and causes the daytime running lamp not to emit the outgoing light including the optical signal; and when the headlamp is turned off, causes the daytime running lamp to emit the outgoing light including the optical signal.
A vehicle lighting system is designed to enhance visibility and communication by emitting an optical signal through either a daytime running lamp or a headlamp, depending on the operational state of the vehicle. The system includes a vehicular controller that manages the emission of outgoing light containing the optical signal. When the headlamp is off, the controller activates the daytime running lamp to emit the outgoing light with the optical signal. Conversely, when the headlamp is turned on, the controller ensures the headlamp emits the outgoing light with the optical signal while the daytime running lamp remains inactive for optical signal transmission. This selective activation ensures efficient use of vehicle lighting components to maintain consistent optical signal visibility under varying lighting conditions. The system optimizes energy consumption and reduces unnecessary light emissions by dynamically switching between the daytime running lamp and headlamp based on their operational status. This approach improves vehicle-to-vehicle communication and safety by ensuring the optical signal is always visible through the appropriate light source.
Unknown
September 24, 2019
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